Discover Japan: Language and Culture for the Beginners
Course Overview
This is a newly created Japanese language and cultural course, emerging from our popular 4 sessions of Discover Japan.
If you are interested in Japanese culture or food or traveling to Japan, the Discover Japan Course is a perfect starting point. You will learn a lot about Japanese customs, culture and language in a very relaxed and fun environment. For the language aspects, the emphasis is on speaking and listening and you will learn effective ways to communicate in Japanese. From day one you will be able to learn to speak in Japanese with your classmates. You will explore Japanese in many ways whilst building friendships in a vibrant, active and cheerful gathering.
Course Breakdown
Week 1: Introduction to Japanese language, basic greetings, introducing yourselves.
Week 2: Japanese food, numbers, ordering food
Week 3: Traveling in Japan: transport methods, time
Week 4: Traveling in Japan, where to stay, do’s and don’ts in Ryokan
Week 5: Seasons, dates, public holidays
Week 6: Festivals, what to see, some unique festival events
Week 7: All about shopping, some interesting shops, adjectives
Week 8: Travel plans and tips
This outline provides an overview of what may be covered during the course; however, changes may occur based on various factors and the needs of the class.
Term Dates
Term 1 runs from Tuesday 4 February to Tuesday 25 March
Term 2 runs from Tuesday 29 April to Tuesday 17 June
Term 3 runs from Tuesday 22 July to Tuesday 9 September
Term 4 runs from Tuesday 14 October to Tuesday 2 December
Course Outcomes
After this course, students will be able to communicate in basic but effective ways with limited knowledge of Japanese language. Students will have a better understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture and customs.
Testimonials
"We thoroughly enjoyed the 8 evenings spent with Motoko learning more about Japan and the Japanese language and culture. Motoko is thoroughly prepared with excellent lesson notes and presentation material. Each session is presented in a very engaging way with plenty of participation. Thanks so much Motoko."
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About the tutor
Motoko Christensen
Hello - I am Motoko, I was born in Tokyo, Japan, and came to Sydney where I studied linguistics and education. I completed a BA DipEd and Master of Applied Linguistic at Macquarie University and obtained my PhD from UNSW.My passion for teaching Japanese reflects a long-standing history of teaching that spans more than 40 years, both in Australia as well as overseas. I have a wide range of teaching backgrounds: from pre-school age to university students and mature aged adults. I love traveling, cooking, watching movies, music, yoga and the list goes on!In my class, students can relax and be encouraged to participate as the classes are interactive, focusing on students’ motivation and well-being!
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